CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Starting May 7, Ohio residents will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or passport for domestic air travel and entry to federal facilities, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) announced.
What is a REAL ID?
A REAL ID is a federally compliant identification card, identifiable by a star in the upper right corner. Standard licenses, marked “not for federal ID,” will not suffice. Enacted in 2005 after 9/11 security recommendations, REAL IDs have been available at Ohio BMV locations since 2017.
Uses for REAL ID
As of May 7, a REAL ID or passport is required for:
• Domestic and international flight security checkpoints.
• Entry to federal facilities, including Columbus’ federal courthouse, military bases, and nuclear power plants.
How to Get a REAL ID
Ohioans must visit a BMV deputy registrar in person to obtain a REAL ID, providing documents verifying:
• Full legal name
• Date of birth
• U.S. legal presence
• Social Security number
• Ohio address (two documents from different sources)
• Name change (if applicable)
Accepted Documents
• Name, birth date, residency: Birth certificate, U.S. passport, permanent resident card.
• Social Security number: Social Security card, W-2, 1099, or pay stub.
• Address: Utility bills, tax returns, credit card statements, Ohio concealed carry permit.
• Name change: Marriage certificate, divorce decree.
A full document list is available at the Ohio BMV website.
Cost and Processing
A first-time four-year REAL ID costs $20.75 to $25.75, with additional fees for renewals or endorsements. Cards are mailed within 10 business days in a plain envelope. If not received after 28 days, contact the BMV at 1-844-644-6268 or online. Renewals can be processed via the BMV’s online portal.
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